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StarTalk Radio

The Elements of Marie Curie with Dava Sobel

Jan 14, 2025
Dava Sobel, a renowned science writer and author of "Longitude," joins the discussion to delve into the remarkable legacy of Marie Curie. They explore Curie’s groundbreaking discoveries in radioactivity that transformed scientific understanding. Sobel discusses the historical gender biases Curie navigated and her role as a trailblazer for women in science. The conversation highlights Curie's significant advancements, the ethical challenges in early cancer treatments, and her lasting impact on future generations, including her daughters.
40:31

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Quick takeaways

  • Marie Curie's groundbreaking discoveries in radioactivity not only advanced science but also inspired generations of women to pursue careers in STEM fields.
  • The podcast highlights the dual nature of scientific discovery, showcasing both the life-saving benefits and ethical concerns associated with radioactivity.

Deep dives

The Legacy of Marie Curie

Marie Curie's significant contributions to science and her pioneering role as a woman in a male-dominated field are explored, highlighting her discoveries of radium and polonium. She was the first woman to win a Nobel Prize, sharing it with her husband Pierre Curie in 1903 before winning another in chemistry in 1911. This not only broke barriers for women in science but also established her as a key figure in the history of radioactivity. Her work laid the groundwork for numerous medical advances, including cancer treatments that utilized the properties of radioactive materials.

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